Master of Science - Nursing

Graduate Nursing Handbook

Overview of the Master of Science (Nursing) The Graduate Nursing Program, Morgan State University offers a 45-credit Master of Science degree (MS) in two areas of graduate nursing practice, Nurse Administrator and Nurse Educator. Consistent with the School of Community Health and Policy, School of Graduate Studies, and Morgan State University, the MS nursing program prepares graduates for nursing practice and leadership that incorporates research and evidence into practice.

The MS core coursework and concentration specific courses all build on the previous learning of the baccalaureate degree in nursing. Core courses include advanced health assessment, advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, contexts of health care, epidemiology, health care policy and law, health care information management, leadership and management, nursing research, and evidence-based practice. All graduates have 135 contact hours of clinical experience in Community Health that provide an opportunity for students to practice in community health care settings with individuals across the life span. The overall graduate nursing program is consistent with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), Essentials of Masters Nursing Education (2011). In addition, each student's goals and needs as well as availability of practice sites are paramount in developing his or her program of study.

The MS in Nursing Leadership and Managementconcentration is designed to prepare baccalaureate-prepared registered (RNs) for the advanced practice role of nursing administrator in health care delivery settings. Students will complete the MS core courses, then proceed to the courses specific to nursing leadership and management. Courses in health care industry and planning, health care organizational management, leadership and management, and budget preparation are required for the capstone seminar and nursing administrative settings. The graduate of the MS (Nursing) program is prepared in providing a professional leadership role in the design and implementation of strategies to improve patient and organizational outcomes.

The MS concentration in Nursing Education was designed to prepare baccalaureate-prepared RNs who wish to teach in academic or healthcare settings. Nursing Education course content is delivered face-to-face interaction coupled with teaching practice with an assigned preceptor in either an academic or a healthcare setting. This program may be completed on a two (2) year full time or three (3) year part time program of study. Students will complete the MS core courses, and then proceed to the course specific to nursing education. Courses in curriculum design, teaching/learning, and educational technology are required in preparation for a capstone seminar and educational practice settings. An evidence-based paper is required at the completion of the program.

Information provided is subject to change as needed to maintain compliance with State and Federal Laws, the Maryland Board of Nursing, if applicable, Nursing Accrediting Organizations, and affiliated Healthcare Agency policy.